Merchandise Allocator

Who We Are:

Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.

JOB MISSION:

Merchandise allocator is responsible for executing allocation and replenishment strategies to stores, for specific categories or channels, with the goal of exceeding sales and gross margin targets while optimizing inventory levels and in stock availability. The Allocator ensures the right products are available at the right time in stores, in the correct quantities, and at the optimal locations, while also factoring in End of Life (EOL) strategies for each product. The allocator is also responsible for initial set allocations, replenishment analysis, maintaining proper inventory levels in store and by style, and order flow management.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Analyze sales trends, inventory levels, and store capacity to inform decisions.
• Collaborate with buyers and planners to achieve sales goals and maintain proper store inventory levels.
• Partner with buyers and planners on seasonal calendars, promotions, and new launches.
• Collaborate with buyers to analyze style-level inventory and identify risks/opportunities/EOL strategies.
• Manage and adjust auto-replenishment based on sales trends, seasonal factors, and business needs weekly.
• Manage inventory flow to stores to align to store capacity reporting and identify inventory risks and opportunities.
• Ensure timely replenishment to stores by managing order flow from the DC’s.
• Optimize shipping efficiency, ensuring the right products reach the right locations at the right time.
• Address inventory flow issues with Account services, buyers, and planners, providing actionable recommendations.
• Build relationships with key internal teams (RM’s/DM’s, Store Ops, Warehouse, Account services, Finance, IT, etc.).
• Present analytical data clearly and propose solutions to cross-functional teams.
• Foster a positive team environment
  
  

Requirements For Success

• Bachelor’s degree plus a minimum of 2 + years of merchandise allocation experience or 3+ years of retail experience
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and problem solving
• Knowledge of retail systems, retail math, merchandising strategies
• Proficiency in Excel
• Strong communication skills
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Adaptability & Flexibility
• Motivated self-starter with drive and eagerness to learn and grow
  
  

Regular Associate Benefits

Our products are only as good as the people we hire, so we make sure to hire the best and treat them accordingly. New Balance offers a comprehensive traditional benefits package including three options for medical insurance as well as dental, vision, life insurance and 401K. We also proudly offer a slate of more nontraditional perks – opportunities like online learning and development courses, tuition reimbursement, $100 monthly student loan support and various mentorship programs – that encourage our associates to grow personally as they develop professionally. You’ll also enjoy a yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement, 4 weeks of vacations, 12 holidays and generous parental leave, because work-life balance is more than just a buzzword – it’s part of our culture.

Temporary associates are provided three options for medical insurance as well as dental and vision insurance and an associate discount.

Part time associates are provided 401k, short term disability, a yearly $300 lifestyle reimbursement and an associate discount.

Flexible Work Schedule

For decades we have fostered a unique culture founded on our values with a particular focus on in-person teamwork and collaboration. Our North American hybrid model encourages rich in-person experiences, showcasing our commitment to teamwork and connection, while maintaining flexibility for associates. New Balance Associates currently work in office three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Our offices are fully open, and amenities are available across our North American office locations. To continue our focus on hybrid work we have introduced “Work from Anywhere” (WFA) for four weeks per calendar year. This model will help us enhance our culture while continuing to maintain elements of flexibility.

Equal Opportunity Employer

New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates and takes affirmative action to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran.